HIST 2083 - Colonial Australia: Conflict and Consensus

This subject offers a critical examination of Australian people and culture from the earliest days of European settlement until the federation of the colonies in 1901. It explores the economic, social and cultural impact of colonisation and emigration on both newcomers and Aboriginal peoples. It also considers conflict over access to land, mineral wealth, political power and the control of working conditions. At the heart of the course lie questions about the origins of contemporary Australia: Was the continent settled or invaded? Did Aborigines resist colonisation, and if so, how? Were convicts slaves or was their punishment just? Were explorers and pastoralists heroes or land-grabbers and environment vandals? Were all migrants welcome and did they settle peacefully? How important was gold and other minerals in ensuring the survival of the colonies? What role did women and workers play in creating a nation? What sort of rights were they denied? And was the Australian character - defined by resilience, athleticism, courage in the face of adversity, and loyalty to one's mates - established well before Federation or the brave acts of ANZAC soldiers at Gallipoli? Students will have the opportunity to explore these questions, and others, during the course and also contemplate South Australia's distinctive place in the nation's history.